A model of sustainable design with a focus on energy conservation, the state-of-the-art Asbury Woods Nature Center sits on over 205 acres of rich, ecologically diverse land in northwestern Pennsylvania, boasting 4.5 miles of hiking trails. Designed by Schmidt Copeland Parker Stevens, in late 2005 the Center opened its doors to the new addition along with modern updates to the existing 1930’s cottage. The Exhibit Hall features live animal habitats, a turtle pond, an amphitheater/program area, and a live honeybee hive exhibit plus three new classrooms, covered by the 5,000 square foot vegetative roof that visitors see as they enter the building.

Provided and designed by Roofmeadow, a Sedum carpet tops the dramatic barrel-vaulted roof with pitches up to 7:12, creating a striking counterpoint to the forested surroundings of the Asbury Woods Nature Center. The un-irrigated Type I vegetative roofing system has a 5” depth with Sedums and flowering herbs such as Allium schoenoprasum and Talinum calycinum. In the flat portion cuttings of various Sedum species were used including S. sexangulare, S. sieboldii, and S. spurium. A small curved informational kiosk was also planted at the building entrance by Lichtenfels Nursery. The Asbury Woods Nature Center green roof was funded through a $63,892 Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Energy Harvest Grant.